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A nutritionist is an expert in the field of food and nutrition. They advise people on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal. They work in many settings, including hospitals, cafeterias, nursing homes, and schools. Some are self-employed with their own practice.

How to Become a Nutritionist

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What does a Nutritionist do?

Some nutritionists provide customized information for specific individuals. For example, a dietitian or nutritionist might teach a patient with high blood pressure how to use less salt when preparing meals. Others work with groups of people who have similar needs. They might, for example, plan a diet with reduced processed foods and sugar to help overweight people lose weight.

Promote better nutrition by giving talks to groups about diet, nutrition, and the relationship between good eating habits and preventing or managing specific diseases

Keep up with the latest nutritional science research

Although all nutritionists do similar tasks, there are several specialties within the occupations. The following are examples of types of nutritionists:

Clinical dieticians provide medical nutrition therapy. They work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other institutions. They create both individualized and group nutritional programs based on the health needs of patients or residents. Clinical dieticians may further specialize, such as working only with patients with kidney diseases. They also may work with other healthcare professionals.

Management dieticians plan meal programs. They work in food service settings such as cafeterias, hospitals, and food corporations. They may be responsible for buying food and for carrying out other business-related tasks. They may oversee kitchen staff or other dieticians.

Community dieticians educate the public on topics related to food and nutrition. They often work with specific groups of people, such as pregnant women. They work in public health clinics, government and non-profit agencies, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), and other settings.

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What is the workplace of a Nutritionist like?

Nutritionists work in hospitals, cafeterias, nursing homes, and schools. Some nutritionists are self-employed and maintain their own practice. They work as consultants, providing advice to individual clients, or they work for healthcare establishments on a contract basis.

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Further Reading

If you’re looking to work with a health professional to create a customized nutrition plan, one of your first steps will be to choose whether to work with a registered dietitian (RD) or a holistic nutritionist.

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